Jenny Nyström

Jenny Nyström, born on June 13, 1854 in Kalmar, Sweden, was a Swedish artist and illustrator who is best known for her depiction of Christmas elves, the so-called "Tomten". She is considered the "mother" of Swedish Christmas cards and her illustrations have had a lasting impact on the image of the Swedish Christmas.

Nyström grew up in an artistically inclined family and showed talent for drawing from an early age. Her family moved to Gothenburg when she was eleven, and there she began her formal education at art school. She later continued her studies at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm, where she was one of the first women to be admitted. Her education eventually took her to Paris, where she studied at the prestigious Académie Colarossi and was inspired by the city's vibrant art scene.

In Paris, Nyström became acquainted with the works of the Impressionists, which influenced her style. But despite her international education, she remained true to her Swedish homeland and its traditions. Her illustrations of Tomten, the small, friendly elves who play an important role in Swedish folklore, became popular throughout Sweden. These figures, often depicted in winter landscapes, became an integral part of the Swedish Christmas tradition.

Nyström was not only an illustrator, but also a talented painter. She created portraits, landscapes and genre paintings that were shown in various exhibitions. Nevertheless, her work as an illustrator remained the heart of her career. She illustrated numerous books, including children's books and fairy tales, and worked with various publishers to make her art accessible to a wide audience.

Interesting fact:

Important works of art & pictures by Jenny Nyström: